O’Reilly @100: Embrace the value of steadfastness in your academic pursuits – Apaak to Students 

Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has called on Ghanaian students to embrace steadfastness as a guiding principle for national progress.

He stressed that perseverance and commitment are the foundations of academic and professional excellence.

He made the call at the centenary celebration of O’Reilly Senior High School in Accra. The event, themed “Steadfastness: An Endearing Value for Academic Excellence,” highlighted the school’s hundred-year history of shaping disciplined and productive citizens for Ghana.

“The story of O’Reilly SHS is one of resilience and consistency,” Dr. Apaak said. “Through colonial rule, independence, and modernization, this school has never wavered in its mission of nurturing leaders. That is the spirit of steadfastness Ghana must uphold.”

Dr. Apaak reiterated the government’s commitment to investing in education through the Free SHS policy, improved infrastructure, teacher training, and digital learning tools. “Education is not just a service but the foundation on which we build our nation’s future,” he noted. “Government will remain a steadfast partner in this noble endeavour.”

He further explained that steadfastness is not limited to schools but cuts across every stakeholder. “For students, it means consistency in learning; for teachers, dedication to their calling; for parents, active involvement in their children’s development; and for government, sustaining long-term education policies,” he added.

During the celebration, Dr. Apaak also received two acknowledgments on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu. They were hand-drawn portraits of President Mahama and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, presented in appreciation of their leadership and support for education.

The colourful centenary celebration featured cultural displays, alumni tributes, and reflections on the school’s contribution to nation-building. Past and present students pledged renewed support to ensure that O’Reilly SHS continues to thrive for the next century.